Latex Allergies

Natural rubber latex is made from the milky substance found in rubber trees. Latex is found in many medical and dental products such as gloves, masks, syringes, tape and bandages. Some people are hypersensitive to natural rubber latex which can cause an allergic reaction.

An allergy to latex can develop after repeated exposure to products made of natural rubber latex. Healthcare workers are particularly suseptible since they are constantly exposed to latex products. Symptoms of a latex allergy can vary in severity from hives or nasal congestion to anaphylaxis, a potentially life threatening condition if left untreated.

If you have had an adverse reaction to latex, consult your physician to determine the best way to deal with the allergy. Inform your dentist and his/her staff so they can put an alert on your chart and take the proper precautions.

Fun Facts!

Abraham Lincoln issued a 'Thanksgiving Proclamation' on October 3, 1863 and officially designated the last Thursday of November as the national day for Thanksgiving.

Prior to that date, Presidents made an annual proclamation to specify the day when Thanksgiving was to be held.

The above information is for general information and educational purposes only and does not constitute health or medical advice. Consult a qualified dentist or physician to determine an individualized treatment plan and for an accurate medical diagnosis and advice. Although every reasonable effort has been made to ensure the contents of this educational piece is current, accurate and complete, neither David A Dersh, D.M.D., PA nor any other party involved in the publication of this paper make guarantees of any kind to it's accuarcy, merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose and are not responsible for errors or omissions of any kind.